Alabama has a warrior in the second level of its defense who is ready to ball out.
He saw Rolando McClain, C.J. Mosley, Reggie Ragland, Reuben Foster, Shaun Dion Hamilton, and Rashaan Evans come before him, but he knows now is his time. Deontae Lawson, a former four-star, has been waiting for this opportunity since coming to the Crimson Tide in 2021 from Mobile, Ala. As a redshirt sophomore, he earned playing time last year but knows the defense better.
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Alabama head coach Nick Saban has been pleased with Lawson, and defensive coordinator Kevin Steele likes what he sees.
The 6-foot-2, 230-pounder benefitted from 11 games — including four starts — in 2022. He collected 51 total tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, and four pass breakups. Lawson assisted the Tide to 11 victories and a 45-20 Allstate Sugar Bowl win over Kansas State.
He has been a vocal leader and a leader by example for the defense through spring practice, offseason workouts, and preseason practices. Lawson is ready to hit someone else Saturday as the Tide opens against Middle Tennessee State.
Seth McLaughlin, an offensive lineman, spoke Monday about how impressed he has been with Lawson. The senior center has endured battles against Lawson and the defense for several practices, including two scrimmages.
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“It has been nice to see Deontae take steps as a leader,” McLaughlin said. “He knows the playbook in and out. It has been interesting to see how he can lead those guys, put everyone in the right position, and make the calls from the Mike spot.”
Alabama wants to return to being the aggressor, but it starts with Lawson. He has to set the tone as a linebacker and have his teammates hungry each week to dominate opponents. His first assignment is intimidating the Blue Raiders at home.
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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
